World Cup star John McGinn features in 25ft mural on side of superfan’s home

A giant tribute to Scotland star John McGinn is currently being painted in his hometown of Clydebank.

The 25ft mural, which is in the process of being created on the side of a superfan’s house, celebrates McGinn’s status as a football icon.

Now Irn-Bru is inviting diehard followers to nominate their own walls for a free football makeover, hoping to create a “big show of support” this summer.

Mural dedicated to Tartan Army star John McGinn in Clydebank IRN BRU/Wattie Cheung

To kick things off, Lesley Anderson, 59, and 63-year-old Paul Patterson offered their house in honour of McGinn, with the Tartan Army favourite depicted in his trademark ‘goggles’ celebration.

The mural also displays ‘Made in Clydebank from Girders’ alongside McGinn’s Number 7.

McGinn grew up in Clydebank before going on to enjoy a standout career, making history with Hibs and recently captaining Aston Villa to European glory.

McGinn grew up in Clydebank before embarking on an incredible football career that has seen him make history with Hibs, before captaining Aston Villa to European glory this season.

But it’s his performance playing for Scotland, including helping the national side to three major tournaments, that has cemented his status among fans.

Lesley Anderson said: “John McGinn is a hero to many – but no more so than here in Clydebank. This is where it all started for him. He’s gone from playing football in the local park to helping lead Scotland to the biggest stage there is.

“When I heard that there was the opportunity to make over our house as a mural for him, we didn’t even think twice.

“Whatever happens on the pitch, it’s certainly not going to be a tournament I’ll forget in a hurry – and judging by the reaction of my neighbours, neither will they. What a way to kick things off!”

McGinn said: “The mural is absolutely top class. It’s surreal to see myself on the side of someone’s house, especially in my hometown. I have fond memories growing up on these streets, so it really does mean a lot.

“It takes girders to paint something like this on your house. Let’s see whose house the next mural goes on!”

Kenny Nicholson, Director of Brand at IRN-BRU, said: “We wanted to make it easy for the most devoted fans to become part of the Art-an Army with their own mural. Whether they’re in Lancaster or Lanark, Irvine or the Isle of Man, we’ve got a team of artists on standby to bring their home support to life in a legendary way.

“The players have shown such girders in getting us here – and fans watching every kick of the ball have had nerves of steel too, so offering murals on us is our way of honouring that.”

The McGinn artwork is expected to take ten days to complete, with five artists using more than 100 litres of paint.

Fans across the country can nominate a wall on their home through Irn-Bru’s Instagram page for the chance to be selected.